Balance your spine, Enhance your health
Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) is a chiropractic technique that recognises the vital connection between the sacrum (the base of the spine) and the occiput (the base of the skull). This relationship plays a crucial role in spinal alignment, nervous system function, and overall well-being.
A core principle of SOT is its focus on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow—the protective fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. CSF maintains stable pressure within the central nervous system, nourishing and supporting its function. The sacrum acts as a pump, helping circulate CSF from the base of the spine to the brain. However, misalignments in the spine or pelvis can disrupt this process, affecting nervous system function.
Xanthia, chiropractor at Sustainable Health, Wellington has expertise in using SOT with wedge-shaped blocks placed under specific areas of the pelvis. With the assistance of gravity and breathwork, these blocks encourage proper spinal alignment and release tension. By restoring balance to the spine, pelvis, and cranial system, SOT supports optimal CSF flow and nervous system function. This gentle yet effective approach makes SOT an excellent choice for those seeking a holistic care to correct spinal imbalances, postural issues, and nervous system dysfunction. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or simply looking to optimise your well-being, SOT offers an effective path to better spinal alignment and overall well-being.
Why Sacro Occipital Technique Matters & How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Each SOT category reflects the body’s attempt to adapt under stress. Addressing dysfunction early can help restore balance, relieve discomfort, and support long-term spinal and nervous system health.
Chiropractic care, including SOT, takes a vitalistic approach to well-being by aligning the spine, enhancing nervous system function, and improving posture. Benefits may include:
- Reduced pain and tension
- Improved mobility and flexibility
- Better posture and balance
- Enhanced nervous system communication
- A greater sense of overall well-being
If you experience postural imbalances, chronic discomfort, or limited mobility, SOT may provide the gentle, effective care your body needs to restore balance and optimise function naturally.
Understanding the Three Categories of Sacro Occipital Technique
As a chiropractic technique, SOT is based on the idea that the body adapts to spinal imbalances in stages. These stages, or categories, reflect how the body compensates for stress and misalignment.
Category One: CSF Flow Disruption
The first stage of dysfunction affects the flow of CSF, often due to misalignment in the sacroiliac (SI) joint (pelvis joint). Movement is restricted in the SI joint, inhibiting the essential pumping action that circulates the CSF around the body.
Common patient presentation symptoms can include:
- Lower back or pelvic stiffness
- Low energy or fatigue
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Category One is frequently seen in students, elderly people, and post surgical patients.
Category Two: Pelvic Instability & Cranial Tension
Category Two occurs when the SI joint becomes unstable, affecting the body’s ability to maintain stability against gravity. As the body struggles to compensate, structures—such as the skull sutures and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ or jaw joint)— tighten to maintain balance.
Common patient presentation symptoms can include:
- Sharp, localised SI pain
- Pain when standing up or rolling over in bed
- Referred pain to the hip, groin, or lower abdomen
Category Two is frequently seen in pregnant or postpartum women, young hypermobile people, and people who have had previous pelvic injuries.
Category Three: Nerve Irritation & Disc Issues
Category Three is the most advanced stage, occurring when the body can no longer adapt. Prolonged imbalance weakens spinal discs, making the nerves exiting the spine vulnerable to irritation. This can lead to significant pain and dysfunction, primarily in the lower back.
Common patient presentation symptoms can include:
- Lower back pain with or without pain down the legs
- Pain aggravated by sitting, coughing, or bending forward
- Leaning posture to reduce the pain
Category Three is frequently seen in labourers/trades people, long term desk workers, and people recovering from major injuries.
References
Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal. (2024). Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) abstracts 2024. Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal. https://www.apcj.net/SOT-Abstracts-2024/
Holt, K. R., Beck, R. W., & Weaver, A. L. (2022). A systematic review of chiropractic care for fall prevention. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23, Article 789.
Paige, N. M., Miake-Lye, I. M., Booth, M. S., Beroes, J. M., Mardian, A. S., & Shekelle, P. G. (2017). Association of spinal manipulative therapy with clinical benefit and harm for acute
low back pain: Systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA, 317(14), 1451–1460. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2017.3086
SOT New Zealand. (n.d.). SOT overview. SOT New Zealand. Retrieved February 13, 2025, from https://sotonz.wildapricot.org/page-1075334 SOTO-USA. (n.d.). What is SOT? Sacro Occipital Technique Organization. Retrieved February 13, 2025, from https://soto-usa.com/what-is-sot/
